Texans Add Special Teams Piece with Jake Hummel Signing
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The Houston Texans continued adding depth to the roster Monday, signing linebacker Jake Hummel to a two-year deal, according to a report from Dianna Russini.
Hummel most recently played with the Baltimore Ravens and built a reputation as a core special teams contributor. The former Iowa State Cyclones football standout entered the league as an undrafted free agent with the Los Angeles Rams before carving out a role primarily through special teams play.
The Iowa State connection is growing inside the Texans organization. Hummel becomes the fifth former Iowa State Cyclones football player on Houston’s roster, joining wide receivers Jaylin Noel and Jayden Higgins, former Cyclone standout Xavier Hutchinson, and newly acquired running back David Montgomery. The Cyclone pipeline to Houston continues to grow, adding another familiar connection to the locker room.
While this move may not grab headlines, it adds another body to a linebacker room that already has several intriguing storylines.
Texans Linebacker Room Outlook
Houston’s linebacker group now includes:
Azeez Al-Shaair — entering the final year of his deal and potentially a candidate for an extension in the near future.
Henry To'oTo'o — also heading into the final year of his rookie contract, making his long-term outlook with the team something to watch.
E.J. Speed — recently re-signed on a two-year deal after playing a significant role last season.
Jamal Hill — a 2024 sixth-round pick still in the development phase of his rookie contract.
Jake Hansen — a depth linebacker and special teams contributor entering the final year of his deal.
Jake Hummel — the newest addition to the group.
Special Teams Impact
Hummel’s primary value historically has come on special teams, which raises an interesting question about how he fits into Houston’s roster construction.
His arrival could create competition with players like Hansen or Hill for the final linebacker spots, potentially setting up a camp battle later this offseason.
Another possibility is that Hummel fills a broader special teams role that had previously been occupied by veteran running back Dare Ogunbowale. Ogunbowale, a key special teams contributor for Houston in recent seasons, is currently a free agent and has not yet re-signed with the team.
If the Texans are looking to maintain strong special teams units while allocating roster spots differently, adding a linebacker with proven special teams ability could help offset that loss.
Depth Move with Roster Implications
At first glance, the signing appears to be a depth addition and special teams investment rather than a move that significantly reshapes the defensive depth chart.
Still, with multiple linebackers entering contract years and young players developing behind them, Hummel’s presence adds another layer of competition to the position group as the Texans continue building out their roster for the upcoming season.
Whether he ultimately carves out a roster spot or pushes others in camp, the move reflects Houston’s continued emphasis on depth, versatility, and special teams value.
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